I have a 1982 300d 221k. When I shut a few of the doors, they never seem to close all the way unless I really slam them shut.

I know this can happen if the seat belts are in the way but that's not the problem.

What is the first thing I should do to resolve this problem?

Are there are lubricants I could spray on the parts that will fix the problem?

Are there adjustments that could fix the problem?

Thanks.

pete

are the rubber edge guards on the jamb seam correctly seated? are the door seal gaskets terribly beaten up? are the doors actually loose on their hinges?

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'77 240D, 504H, OM617.952, etc.

check this link:
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/346899-w123-door-striker-inserts-locking-eye.html

If you do a google search with the terms "w123 locking eye" you will come across a vendor in Thailand called auto pro who sells the plastic inserts you need - they call them locking eye repair kits. I ordered from those guys just a few weeks ago using their website in Thailand and the transaction went fine - set of four was $18.00 with shipping. Their website is a little wonky (click the button for the English version and it's easier to read!) but I paid with paypal and the goods arrived promptly.

The trickiest part to this job is to avoid rounding out the hex bolts trying to the the striker off of the body. I rounded out the first one and had to drill it out - luckily I had an extra bolt in my junk drawer. I used a mapp gas torch to heat up the rest of them; also I gave the hex socket wrench a nice sharp blow with a hammer for extra luck. All of the rest of the bolts came out fine after that.

This job was a very cheap and easy fix for a frustrating problem. You don't want to keep slamming your doors - not good for the window regulators inside there.

If you're going to use a torch back there get an old license plate or something to use as a heat shield so as not to burn the fabric covering the windlace.

the various striker plates are easy to get in a junkyard too. lord knows i have more of them than i need.

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'77 240D, 504H, OM617.952, etc.

If your strikers are in decent shape, grease* the latch mechanism. Also, grease* them before replacing the damaged ones or you will be repeating the situation.

Brand new strikers are available here on the host website: 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300D Base Sedan - Bumpers, Doors, Latches & Lids - Page 2

* (You need to use grease, not WD-40 or silicone spray.)

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Sam

84 300SD 350K+ miles ( Blue Belle )

Thanks for all the info.

Pete

Who has a direct link to the ebay seller of striker tongues?? I couldn't find them in a search.